John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, According to Administration Statement.
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The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has decided to adopt a new name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, crediting "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt achieve new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt added.
The planned renaming is shaping up as extremely contentious, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has been an iconic landmark since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Background of the Center
Not long after beginning his term, President Donald Trump fired all the center's sitting board members and appointed allies in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to elect Trump chairman.
The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to pay for major renovations and associated costs at the aging venue.
Historical Roots
The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center began in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. More details will be published soon.
